Magnanimous
hardPositive tonemag-NAN-ih-mus
adjective
Definition
Very generous or forgiving; noble in spirit
Memory hook
MAGNA-NIMOUS: having a GREAT (magna) SOUL (animus) — generous and forgiving, especially to rivals.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The magnanimous victor offered clemency to the defeated.”
“Her magnanimous gesture surprised everyone.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ victor offered clemency to the defeated.”
Show answer
magnanimous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Magnanimous is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "generous" or "benevolent" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "petty".
Related GRE Words
beneficent
Doing good or causing good to be done; generous and kind
philanthropic
Seeking to promote the welfare of others; generous
benevolent
Well-meaning and kindly; generous and charitable
munificent
Very generous; lavish in giving
liberal
Generous in giving; given freely; open to new ideas
unstinting
Given or giving without restraint; very generous
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